How to Create a Custom Formula in MS Excel
- George Apostolov
How to Create a Custom Formula in MS Excel: step-by-step guide
Inside your Microsoft Excel worksheet, select the cell where you wish to run the custom formula.
After that, type an 'Equals' (=) sign to indicate that your succeeding input is a formula.
Type the name of the function you wish to use and then select it from the suggested results.
Next, enter the cell reference or cell range and then end the formula with a closing parenthesis.
Input an operator or separator if you want to add another condition.
Subsequently, type the name of the function and then select it from the recommended matches.
Add the cell range or cell reference you wish to use as the argument.
Once done, insert a closing parenthesis to end the formula. If you want to add more condition, simply repeat the same series of steps.
Finally, press the 'Enter' or 'Return' key to run the newly created formula and view the results.
Quick answer: To create a custom formula in Microsoft Excel, select a cell, type an equals sign, and enter the function name. Select the function, add a cell reference or range, and close with a parenthesis. Add operators and additional functions as needed, then press Enter to run the formula.
About this Microsoft tutorial
Build custom formulas in Microsoft Excel by entering functions, cell references, and operators, then pressing Enter to run and view results. This guide shows how to create a Custom Formula in MS Excel in 9 steps, starting with "Inside your Microsoft Excel worksheet, select the cell where you wish to run the custom..." and finishing with "Finally, press the 'Enter' or 'Return' key to run the newly created formula and view th...". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Microsoft interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to create a Custom Formula in MS Excel?
9 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Microsoft data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Microsoft and Excel. Related guides: How to Create a Gantt Chart in Microsoft Planner, How to Create a Histogram Chart in Microsoft Excel and How to Create a Macro in Microsoft Excel. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
Create your first interactive demo in minutes
No credit card required • Start building today
